Birdbox

BirdBox open for nesting

Bromsgrove residents and visitors can flock to open air restaurants and bars throughout August as the new BirdBox is open for business.

The pop-up space, near Waitrose, is supporting local independent food and beverage businesses and, going forward, will also host outside workshops, small events and well-being activities as part of an ongoing and ever-changing programme.

It has been created by North Worcestershire Economic Development and Regeneration (NWEDR) on behalf of Bromsgrove District Council due to the makeover of the site occupied by the Market Hall.

So far this month visitors have enjoyed food from Shimla Peppers, Heavenly Pizza and picked up a beverage from Bayleys and the Little Ale House, to name just a few independent traders.

Extra tables and chairs, placed with social distancing in mind, and hand sanitisers are also available.

Bromsgrove District Council leader Karen May said: “Our local independent businesses have suffered during the coronavirus pandemic and even now, due to lack of space to comply with social distancing, they are unable to open.

“We have supported businesses during this pandemic by administering government grants and now are offering further support, as part of our recovery strategy, by providing a free space for our hospitality industry to operate.”

Businesses are invited to get in touch to occupy the space which currently is free to hire as part of recovery measures.

Councillor May added: “I am delighted to see the BirdBox open for business. As well as playing a part in the town’s future, it is an important part of our heritage. If you look up at the buildings around this area, you will see little wooden structures which look like birdboxes, and this was the inspiration for the name.

“In the future we want fledgling businesses to fly here and hope that local independent businesses, groups and organisations, consider how they can make the most of the space and encourage flocks of visitors to enjoy community events and initiatives. This is another step in our plans to create a better Bromsgrove where everyone can work, live and visit.”

Of course the space can be used all the time by picking up goodies from nearby traders or even enjoy your own picnic – or just relax with a book.

Businesses who are interested in setting up in the BirdBox can register their interest by emailing info@ nwedr.org.uk or calling 01562 732192. For more information on BirdBox, visit its Facebook page and Instagram or Bromsgrove.gov.uk